Curriculum Overview

Academic Life
Fannie C. Williams Charter School

The Curriculum

Emphasis is placed on reading, mathematics, social studies, and science in the classrooms at FCW Charter School. We are currently aligned with the Louisiana Comprehensive Curriculum (LCC). This curriculum is under constant revision based upon teacher feedback, an external review by educational experts from outside of Louisiana, and input from course writers.

Upper grades (6-8) are departmentalized, with students having specialized teachers for English Language Arts (ELA), Math, and Science/Social Studies. Many of our students are also enrolled in the Read 180 program, an intensive reading intervention program designed to meet the needs of students whose achievements are below the proficient level. Heavy emphasis is placed on making students competent in reading, because we believe that successful students are always skilled readers.

Lower elementary students are self-contained, taught by one teacher, except for the “enrichment” classes, which they attend five times per week. Our older students also receive instruction in the “enrichment” program. Our enrichment classes include computer literacy, art, physical education, vocal, and instrumental music.

In July 2010, the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) adopted the Common Core State Standards (CCSS). In doing so Louisiana and 44 other states, plus the District of Columbia formally signed on to the state-led initiative.

The Council for Chief State School Officers and the National Governor’s Association is coordinating this effort to provide educators and parents with a common understanding of what students are expected to learn and know. Employers and high education leaders have had input in developing these standards. They are based on the most effective models in the country and across the world. They reflect what students should learn throughout their K-12 education careers. These standards will ensure they are ready to pursue post-secondary education and/or employment in the world of work. They were developed with assistance from educators in K-12 schools.

The grade-level standards:

• Are aligned with college and work expectations;
• Are clear, understandable and consistent;
• Include rigorous content and application of knowledge through high-order skills;
• Are informed by other top performing countries, so that all students are prepared
to succeed in our global economy and society; and
• Are evidence-based.

ELA, mathematics, and social studies standards will be the primary focus of the Common Core State Standards.

In Louisiana, the CCSS will start with kindergarten and 1st grade for the 2012-2013 school year. Full implementation (K-12) will be in force by the 2014-2015 school year.

Additional information can be found at: http://www.doe.state.la.us/topics/common_core.html